Mission Launch Brings Together Experts, Startups, Entrepreneurs to Collaborate on Innovation
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By News Reporter
LG NOVA InnoFest Lights the Halo of Innovation on Bold Ideas and Businesses With
Open Conference Program, Issues a Call for Startups for the Pitch Competition
SAN FRANCISCO, July 16, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) has opened registration for the fourth annual LG NOVA InnoFest, taking place on September 25-26, at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. Hosted by LG NOVA, LG Electronics’ North America Innovation Center, the two-day event will bring together a cross-section of business leaders, innovators and investors across various industries to collaborate on solutions for a better future. This year’s event theme, “Lighting the Halo of Innovation” was designated to inspire attendees to focus on creating change and impact through co-creation and collaboration on bold ideas and businesses.
The event brings back its annual Startup Pitch Competition, where 10 selected startups will compete to win cash prizes, an audience with executive judges and recognition on stage. In this competition, LG is looking for bold startups with great potential, working on innovative ideas that can lead to transformative change in their markets.
LG Electronics’ sister company LG Chem is co-sponsoring this year’s startup pitch competition, adding a new Life Sciences category alongside CleanTech, HealthTech, AI, Smart Life and Open Innovation. The US Business Development team is seeking next-generation technologies that align with LG Chem’s sustainability mission and will sponsor a new “Innovation for Impact Award.”
For more details on each category, visit
link hidden, please login to view. Interested startups can submit their companies for consideration at . In addition to the monetary prizes and on-stage recognition, selected startups may have the opportunity to collaborate with LG to build businesses, participate in LG NOVA-sponsored marketing activities or qualify for investments from LG and its network. According to a 2023 from Boston Consulting Group, 79 percent of companies ranked innovation among their top three priorities and more than 40 percent expect to increase spending significantly. Today, innovation is being driven by a collaborative ecosystem. This interconnected approach, involving startups, corporations, academia and venture capitalists can result in groundbreaking solutions. Innofest seeks to illustrate the capabilities of this model, bringing together startups, investors and members of the innovation community to exchange ideas, encourage, support and discuss how they can all work together to spur “innovation for a better life.”
“Today the responsibility for innovation no longer sits solely with individual companies; collaboration is critical,” said Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, corporate executive vice president for Innovation at LG Electronics and head of LG NOVA. “Through InnoFest, we are bringing together the entire innovation ecosystem, from corporations to growing startups, to discuss creative and cutting-edge ideas that have the potential to shape our future.”
Last year’s gathering brought 90 industry-leading speakers together for 28 sessions focused on topics such as women in tech; balancing growth, profitability and impact; as well as diversity in tech. The event enabled people to join in the discussions on solutions to challenges in these key areas within the innovation community.
This year, according to Rhee, “InnoFest is boldly reimagining its program to be more interactive and engaging through a non-traditional conference format, emphasizing meaningful connections and inspiring conversations.” Attendees can look forward to influential speakers and keynotes, select curated panels and more dynamic discussion-based sessions.
“At LG, we believe in the power of optimism and innovation to change the world,” said Rhee, who invited startups to join LG at InnoFest 2024, “as we strive to create a brighter future together.”
Registration for InnoFest is now open at . Interested in speaking or moderating at the event? Learn more at .
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By News Reporter
Advanced Training Programs and Customer Engagement Are Driving
LG’s Expansion and Strong Performance in the Global HVAC Market
SEOUL, June 13, 2024 — LG Electronics’ (LG) Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Academy is reinforcing the company’s human resources infrastructure by training over 30,000 HVAC professionals annually. Building a network of skilled installation and service engineers, the academy is playing an important role in supporting the company’s global B2B expansion strategy.
Operating in 62 locations worldwide, the LG HVAC Academy provides comprehensive training on installing and maintaining LG’s residential and commercial HVAC systems, including its high-efficiency chillers. The academy enhances the skill-and knowledge-base of local technicians, equipping them with the ability to ensure the optimal set-up and performance of the company’s advanced HVAC solutions – which is crucial in delivering the differentiated customer experiences LG is known for.
The LG HVAC Academy estimates it will provide training to approximately 37,000 individuals this year. Each branch of the academy features integrated showrooms and training rooms where attendees can gain hands-on experience with the company’s B2C and B2B products. Along with product installation and maintenance training, LG’s academy introduces the company’s new HVAC solutions and offers specialized regional training programs, technical forums and customized on-site classes at clients’ offices.
Last April, the LG HVAC Academy hosted the five-day ‘Train The Trainer (TTT)’ program at LG headquarters in Seoul, South Korea. The program was designed to further HVAC trainers’ capabilities, giving them the tools to adapt to changes in customer engagement, as well as the valuable opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with their peers from different regions and subsidiaries.
LG is also expanding its region-specific programs with events such as last month’s LG HVAC Consultant Leaders’ Summit (Seoul) for technical consultants from across Asia. Furthermore, the company is continuously adding to its existing HVAC Academy infrastructure, and is set to open a new branch in Lyon (France) by the end of this year. Notable recent additions to the network include sites in Boston (USA), Taipei (Taiwan), Chennai (India) and Kolkata (India).
With the rise of AI, there is a growing need for high-efficiency, high-performance cooling systems, especially in data centers and semiconductor plants where effective heat management is essential for maintaining server efficiency. LG is targeting continuing growth in the global HVAC market – which had an estimated value of approximately USD 58.4 billion in 2023* – with its high-efficiency heat pump HVAC systems, which have been designed with the latest electrification and environmental trends in mind. Moreover, the company aims to more than double the revenue generated by its residential and commercial HVAC business by 2030 and reinforce its position as a worldwide leader in air conditioning.
“The LG HVAC Academy plays a key role in enhancing the capabilities of engineers in each region,” said James Lee, head of the Air Solution Business Unit at LG Electronics Home Appliance & Air Solution Company. “We will continue to increase customer engagement to deliver more value and drive our global HVAC business forward.”
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*According to market research company IBIS World, the estimated value of the global HVAC market as of 2023 was approximately USD 58.4 billion.
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By News Reporter
Augmented/Mixed Reality, webOS, AI and 5G Telematics Technology Combine
to Bring Smart Life Solutions to the in-Vehicle Environment
SEOUL, June 6, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG), a technology leader in the mobility sector, is driving the transition to software-defined vehicles (SDVs) with its pioneering LG AlphaWare. An advanced, innovative, and user-centric suite of software, LG AlphaWare is designed to deliver immersive in-cabin experiences and will expand the definition and expectations of future automotive. LG’s cutting-edge software solutions were introduced this week at AutoTech: Detroit, where the company also shared its insights and approach to revolutionizing the SDV business model.
During LG’s presentation at AutoTech: Detroit, Valentin Janiaut, LG Vehicle component Solutions Company’s software solutions leader, discussed several key topics concerning the transition to SDVs. He emphasized the emerging trend of vehicles becoming extensions of people’s personal space, providing seamless connectivity for work and relaxation, and transforming the car into far more than just a means of transportation. LG AlphaWare will play a central role in enabling SDVs to become ‘living spaces on wheels’ through its ability to facilitate user-experiences similar to those offered by LG’s consumer electronics for the home.
The LG AlphaWare suite of software consists of five sophisticated core solutions that work together to enhance the in-vehicle experience. Boasting comprehensive support and seamless integration with OEM in-vehicle systems, AlphaWare empowers mobility providers to overcome technical challenges and deliver home-like comfort and connectivity to drivers and passengers:
PlayWare – an entertainment platform that enhances the in-vehicle infotainment experience through the delivery of high-definition content and superior sound quality. Leveraging LG’s partnerships with major streaming apps, sports and news channels, PlayWare brings the LG TV experience into the car. The platform requires minimal memory resources to run quickly and smoothly, while displaying content in stunning 4K definition for passengers’ viewing enjoyment. The platform also utilizes AI Audio technology, adapted from LG TVs, to upgrade audio content into convincing spatial sound, making every journey an immersive auditory event. MetaWare – enhances the driving experience by leveraging augmented- and mixed-reality technologies to deliver meaningful information across various displays, from AR HUDs to clusters and central panels. MetaWare supports the procedural generation of realistic 3D environments, transforming standard 2D map data into dynamic, immersive visuals. This feature aids drivers in better understanding their car’s ADAS and navigation system information, providing a more engaging and intuitive driving experience. VisionWare – an AI and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) platform that analyzes driver and passenger behavior through an advanced monitoring system which employs an AI algorithm, software framework, electronic control unit and camera technologies. VisionWare incorporates driver monitoring systems to prevent distractions and hazards that may occur when driving. It also features an interior monitoring system that analyzes the status of all passengers, detecting seat belt usage, hand gestures, behavior patterns, and the presence of children, to deliver a next-generation user experience. BaseWare – the “backbone” of the vehicle, offers a comprehensive collection of versatile software modules to enrich OEM’s existing vehicle operating systems and assist in building new platforms. Engineered to support the essential lifecycle of a car, BaseWare facilitates reliable real-time management and simplifies service abstraction and development. An example of the components included is a Mixed Critical Orchestrator, which supports the management of service execution both on-device and in the cloud while adhering to strict industry safety requirements. OpsWare – the central operations platform, designed to enhance collaboration among software developers. This platform facilitates seamless interaction across global teams throughout the entire software development process, from design to deployment. Alongside fostering collaboration, OpsWare prioritizes robust cybersecurity management, providing comprehensive support for long-term maintenance. LG’s Cybersecurity-as-a-Service offers continuous monitoring and in-depth analysis of cybersecurity risks to ensure vehicles’ software remains secure against emerging threats. Through its diverse capabilities, OpsWare supports OEMs in maintaining high security and in improving the efficiency of their software lifecycle management. LG AlphaWare reinforces LG’s portfolio of state-of-the-art vehicle solutions and supports the company’s continuing transformation into a Smart Life Solutions company. A well-established and leading home appliance brand, LG continues its expansion in the mobility sector to connect and enrich customers’ experiences and spaces in meaningful ways.
“With our AlphaWare, we will deliver a safer and more enjoyable vehicle experience in the SDV era,” said Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG Vehicle component Solutions Company. “SDVs represent a shift not only in technology but in the entire ecosystem of vehicle manufacturing, usage and ownership. With the introduction of our advanced software suite for vehicles, LG is leading the way for new innovation and development across the automotive sector.”
For more information on LG’s vehicle solutions and LG AlphaWare, visit
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By News Reporter
LG Smart TVs Offer Latin American Users Free Anime Onegai FAST Channels for the
First Time With Spanish Subtitles and Dubbing
MEXICO CITY, May. 15, 2024 — LG Electronics (LG) is offering LG TV owners in Latin America free channels from popular Japanese anime platform Anime Onegai through the company’s exclusive, free streaming service, LG Channels. Anime Onegai is a streaming platform focused on anime founded by Japanese company REMOW, delivering Japanese anime straight from Japan. Available for the first time ever, Anime Onegai’s free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) channels are set to delight anime enthusiasts across Mexico, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Colombia with high-quality Spanish subtitles and dubbing. Whether long-time anime fans or exploring the genre for the first time, Anime Onegai on LG Channels promises to deliver a captivating viewing experience on large LG Smart TV screens.
Anime Onegai on LG Channels provides an extensive selection of anime content to the Latin American audience for free, a region boasting a significant anime fanbase with multiple countries among the top consumers of anime worldwide. Exclusively tailored to Spanish speakers, users can discover anime from a diverse range of genres, from thrilling sports, futuristic science fiction and action-packed adventures to rhythmic music and emotional dramas that tug at the heartstrings.
The Anime Onegai Sport channel invites LG smart TV users to enter the captivating universe of “Kuroko’s Basketball,” a must-see anime that fuses traditional sports with fantasy elements for original adrenaline-filled excitement. For those looking for fast-paced storytelling, the Anime Onegai Action channel provides high-octane content like “REBORN!” a gripping series filled with dynamic characters and masterfully crafted fight scenes.
Anime Onegai also offers content that inspires viewers with healing moments for relaxation and reflection. “Natsume Yujin-cho,” a slice-of-life anime featured on the Anime Onegai Drama channel, takes viewers on an emotional journey filled with heartfelt moments. The Anime Onegai Music channel understands the power music holds in transporting viewers to a new world or intensifying a dramatic scene. Here, music fans can immerse themselves in dramas such as “Full Moon,” which promises viewers an immersive experience with enchanting melodies.
In addition to a diverse selection of sports, action, drama and music channels, the Anime Onegai Sci-Fi channel on LG Channels presents compelling narratives with futuristic adventures and unique worldbuilding. LG Smart TV users can dive into the popular sci-fi anime “Broken Blade” and experience a world filled with epic battles, advanced technology and political intrigue.
Available on LG Smart TVs launched in 2016 and later, LG Channels can be effortlessly accessed directly from the home screen. LG Channels remains the preferred choice for LG Smart TV users worldwide, maintaining its position among the top five most used apps. With the addition of Anime Onegai, users can delve into an even broader selection of content for differentiated entertainment experiences.
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By News Reporter
With an unwavering policy of open innovation with startups around the world, LG has been fostering businesses outside its own to better prepare for the future. These big-picture efforts are centered on LG NOVA, the company’s North American Innovation Center in California’s Silicon Valley – known worldwide as the hub of startups.
Established in 2021, LG NOVA aspires to form a collaborative ecosystem that accelerates the growth of new ideas by working closely with startups on new businesses that can enhance LG’s future readiness.
LG NOVA aligns with LG CEO William Cho’s growth strategy of 3B – Build, Buy and Borrow – to strengthen the company’s future growth engine by embracing talent and technology through exchanges with various innovative companies.
Let’s look at how this essential innovation center works with its partners to bring about groundbreaking advancements. Furthermore, we’ll explore how it is establishing a community dedicated to creating and nuturing businesses that contribute positively to the future of our world.
Discovering Global Startups to Break New Ground in Healthcare
LG NOVA’s “Mission for the Future” program, now in its fourth year, is designed to discover and nurture innovative global startups seeking to improve people’s quality of life in a greener, smarter and more-connected future.
In its first three years, LG NOVA received over 4,000 submissions from innovative global startups, with more than 100 companies selected to explore joint business opportunities with LG.
This year is an especially important one, as this month, LG NOVA unveiled its first new venture, “Primefocus Health,” with Darren Sabo, previously head of commercialization of new health ventures at LG NOVA, at the helm as the CEO. Sabo has a wealth of experience in new business development, making him the perfect candidate to take this digital health venture forward.
(From left to right) Darren Sabo, CEO of Primefocus Health, and Sokwoo Rhee, Head of LG NOVA and SVP of Innovation for LG Electronics
Primefocus Health is committed to easing the journey from hospital to home for patients. It leverages cutting-edge technologies and novel healthcare treatments through a platform designed to offer patients access to a personalized care plan. This plan, curated by their healthcare provider, aids in the recovery from chronic diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure.
This healthcare platform also offers providers access to patient data and information, enabling them to assist, guide, communicate and intervene as necessary during the patient’s home recovery. The platform aims to facilitate remote patient monitoring, providing real-time biometric information that can be integrated into the provider’s electronic health record systems.
LG NOVA is collaborating with more healthcare startups through the Mission for the Future program, including
link hidden, please login to view, which integrates immersive VR/AR technology to provide comprehensive therapeutic care for remote medical treatment, and , a sensor-based technology platform that utilizes the cameras in personal devices to virtually capture health readings to enhance diagnosis and treatment effectiveness.
Another example that demonstrates LG NOVA’s focus on digital health is , a virtual care platform to treat polychronic mental and physical illness that was selected during the 2021 Mission for the Future challenge. This solution leverages AI to harness clinical, genetic, gut microbiome, food and behavioral signals to target the root cause of illness.
LG NOVA plans to continuously launch new businesses through ventures in LG’s future growth areas including digital health, clean tech and AI.
Promoting Symbiotic Growth in West Virginia
This year, LG NOVA is joining hands with West Virginia to revitalize the local economy by fostering future businesses while bringing instances of win-win cooperations to this U.S. state and the dynamic Appalachian region.
The announcement introduced the NOVA West Virginia Investment Fund, which aims to drive USD 700 million into the region over five years through investment.
The decision to invest in West Virginia, which is over 2,000 miles away from LG NOVA in Silicon Valley, stems from the REINVENT LG initiative. Under the leadership of CEO Cho, LG has been carrying out various initiatives to redefine everything from its business structure and brand to the way it works. What makes West Virginia the perfect partner is its similar desire to reinvent itself to revitalize the local economy.
Primefocus Health also plans to work closely in the Mountain State.
Increasing Funds to Foster Potential Startups
LG NOVA is also significantly expanding the scale of its investment and speeding up its investments for the future. In 2023, it signed an agreement with Clearbrook, a global venture investment company, to expand the global startup development fund – NOVA Prime Fund.
Through collaborating with external experts to identify the latest technology trends, discover more innovative companies and offer comprehensive support, the company hopes to accelerate the growth of startups and discover opportunities for collaborations across various business areas.
A Talent Acquisition Outpost that Competes with Big Tech
LG NOVA also serves as an outpost to secure the best talent in Silicon Valley, an area dominated by big tech companies. By accurately reading future industrial trends and executing effectively, LG NOVA will be able to move one step ahead of the competition. At the same time, their challenging and brave attitude toward innovation will give a boost to the overall organizational culture.
Dr. Sokwoo Rhee, head of LG NOVA, is the perfect example of this. After founding an IoT startup, Rhee went on to serve in the U.S. government, as assistant director for Cyber-Physical Systems at the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology and Presidential Innovation Fellow at the White House.
(From left to right) Joshua Di Frances, the leader of LG NOVA’s incubation office, and Darren Sabo, CEO of Primefocus Health
Joshua Di Frances, the leader of LG NOVA’s incubation office, is another key executive with experience across various areas including medicine, business and the public sector. Di Frances studied neuroscience at Boston University, an MBA from MIT and built an impressive career at CVS Health and the White House. Since joining LG NOVA in 2021, he is working to build new businesses in digital health, cleantech and immersive/AI future technology with his team of entrepreneurs-in-residence.
And, with the recent global boom in startups among AI engineering students, LG NOVA has been hosting the ‘Innovation Festival’ every fall to provide a space where innovative companies and investors can exchange information and expand.
LG NOVA will continue to seek out innovation from outside LG. To learn more about LG NOVA and its efforts to build, nurture and grow future-defining innovations, visit .
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